Findmypast.ie launches the Anzac Memory Bank

This is a press release I received from findmypast.ie about their new initiative to collect stories of the ANZAC’s or the Australia and New Zeland Army Corps. My Great Grand Uncle Richard Fenton Toomey was an ANZAC. I have written about him here.

April 25th is ANZAC Day in Australia and New Zealand and everyone remembers the great sacrifice these people made.

Press Release

Thousands of new Australian and New Zealand military records added to mark Anzac Day

With Anzac Day fast approaching, Australians and New Zealanders are preparing to reflect on the heroic efforts of their ancestors. To commemorate this important event, leading family history site, findmypast.ie has just launched its inaugural Findmypast Anzac Memory Bank and has also added thousands of new Australia and New Zealand military records to its World Collection.

The updated archives will make it easy for those with Australian and New Zealand ancestors to investigate their family’s past and learn more about their achievements and efforts during Australia’s and New Zealand’s international conflicts. Some of the new records available on findmypast.ie include:

The updated military records will be another essential tool for anyone currently using the Anzac Memory Bank available on findmypast.ie. The Anzac Memory Bank is a commemorative archive, which contains heroic stories, exclusive photos, and expert information about Australian and New Zealand involvement in all wars and conflicts around the world. Users have shared their own personal and family stories, photos and diary entries so that others can learn what it was like to live through these times of turmoil.

Paul Nixon, military expert from findmypast, commented: “The updated military records and the online functionality of the Anzac Memory Bank make it easier than ever for those interested in Australian and New Zealand family history to commemorate the efforts of their bravest ancestors. The simplicity and ease of use make findmypast.ie a fantastic resource for finding out more about your military ancestors.”

Tara McMahon is one of countless Australian and New Zealand descendants who have discovered the phenomenal efforts of their ancestors with findmypast.ie. She said of her great uncle:

“Private Francis McMahon of the 10th Lighthorse Division was killed in action on the third wave at the Battle of Hill 60. Witnessing his death was one of Australia’s first Victoria Cross recipients, Lieutenant H.V Throssell. Through findmypast.ie I found a private letter from Lieutenant H.V Throssell to his commanding officer commending the efforts of my ancestor and three other men who took part in the battle. Lieutenant H.V Throssell spoke about my great uncle for years after the war as he toured Australia recalling the moments resulting in his Victoria Cross award.

“Were it not for findmypast.ie I would never have known of the exceptional bravery and passion that my great uncle displayed. It fills me with pride to know that one of Australia’s bravest men commends my ancestor for his bravery!”

In addition to the updated records on findmypast.ie, Inside History magazine are thrilled to announce a collaboration to produce an exclusive free digital magazine. The digital magazine will showcase new international historical records as well as providing intriguing case studies from around Australia. The free digital magazine is available on iPad by visiting the Anzac Memory Bank on findmypast.ie.

With even more military records included in the findmypast.ie archives and a new digital magazine it’s easier than ever before for Australian and New Zealand descendants to uncover the lost history of their ancestors.

The new records are available on all of findmypast’s international sites as part of a World Subscription.